Definition

Noun: A specific urban area known for a high concentration of businesses related to the sex industry, such as brothels, strip clubs, and adult entertainment venues. The term originates from the red lights historically used as signals or advertisements for such establishments.

Usage

This term is used to geographically designate a neighborhood or zone. It is a fixed compound noun and is typically used in its full form. * The city's historic red-light district has become a tourist attraction, though its nature has changed over the years. * The documentary explored the lives of workers in the famous red-light district.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically to describe any area or context known for illicit or morally questionable activities, though this is less common.
  • The online forum was described as a digital red-light district for unregulated data trading.

Variants and Related Words

• Red-light (adjective, hyphenated): Pertaining to or characteristic of such a district or the sex trade. (e.g., ).
• District: A defined area within a city or town.

Synonyms

• Adult entertainment district: A more modern and formal synonym.
• Tenderloin: An archaic term for a vice district, not exclusively for the sex industry.
• Vice district: A broader term for an area with many illegal activities (gambling, prostitution, etc.).

Related Idioms

• To see the red light: This idiom means to recognize danger or a warning to stop. It is related through the shared symbol of the red light but is distinct in meaning and usage from "red-light district."
  • When the client started asking for confidential files, I saw the red light and ended the meeting.

Noun

1. a district with many brothels